As a parent, you never want to see your child in pain. But sometimes, accidents happen. And when they do, it’s important to know how to properly splint your child’s arm to ensure their healing process is as smooth as possible. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about splinting your child’s arm, from the different types of splints available to when and how to use them. We will also provide some tips on what to do (and what not to do) during the healing process. By the end of this guide, you will be equipped with the knowledge and confidence you need to properly care for your child should they ever need a splint.
What is splinting?
A splint is a device used to support and immobilize a broken bone or injured joint. It is usually made of metal, plastic, or fiberglass and is held in place with straps, padding, or ties.
Immobilization of the affected area is important to prevent further injury and promote healing. The type of splint you use will depend on the location and severity of the injury.
Common uses for splints include:
-supporting a broken bone during healing
-stabilizing an injured joint
-protecting a tendon or ligament injury
-preventing deformity during healing
Why do children need to be splinted?
There are a few reasons why children may need to be splinted:
1. To prevent further injury – if a child has sustained an injury to their arm, splinting can help to immobilize the area and prevent further damage.
2. To provide support – splinting can help to stabilize an injured arm and provide support while it heals.
3. To reduce pain – by immobilizing the injured arm, splinting can also help to reduce pain and discomfort.
4. To aid in the healing process – by keeping the injured arm immobile, splinting can help promote healing by preventing movement that could delay or impede recovery.
The different types of arm splints
There are three main types of arm splints:
1. The forearm splint: This type of splint extends from the wrist to the elbow and is used to immobilize the forearm and hand.
2. The upper arm splint: This type of splint extends from the elbow to the shoulder and is used to immobilize the upper arm.
3. The combination splint: This type of splint extends from the wrist to the shoulder and is used to immobilize both the forearm and upper arm.
Each type of arm splint has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consult with a doctor or physiotherapist to determine which type of splint is best for your child’s particular injury.
How to put on an arm splint
If your child has suffered a broken arm, it is important to immobilize the arm by putting on a splint. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to put on an arm splint:
1. Place the splint on the outside of the arm. Make sure that the padded portion of the splint is positioned over the injured area.
2. Wrap the Velcro straps around the arm and secure them in place.
3. Once the straps are secure, you can adjust the tension on them to ensure that the splint is snug but not too tight.
4. Check that the fingers are able to move freely inside the splint and that there is no pressure being exerted on any one particular area.
5. Finally, check that the entire Splinting process has been done correctly by moving your child’s arm around in different positions. The arm should not be able to move out of the splint easily.
How long does a child need to wear an arm splint?
A child needs to wear an arm splint for as long as their doctor recommends. This can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but is typically around 4-6 weeks. The splint should be worn at all times, except when bathing or doing other activities that require its removal.
Complications that can occur with arm splints
There are several complications that can occur with arm splints, especially if they are not used correctly. One of the most common problems is skin irritation. This can happen when the splint rubs against the skin or if it is too tight and cuts off circulation. Another potential complication is nerve damage. This can occur if the splint presses too hard on a nerve or if it is left on for too long and the nerve becomes constricted. Finally, there is a risk of infection, especially if the splint is not cleaned properly or if it gets wet.
